Dhaka: Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives Minister and BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Friday emphasized the necessity for the media to scrutinize the government while providing it ample time to fulfill its promises. Fakhrul was speaking as the chief guest at a seminar titled ‘Role of Media in Sustainable Democracy’, organized by the Television Editors’ Council at a city hotel.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Fakhrul highlighted the dual role of the media, urging it not only to expose government shortcomings but also to acknowledge its achievements. He criticized television talk shows for framing discussions around the government’s alleged failures during its initial four months, arguing that this approach creates a misleading impression of total administrative failure and neglects governmental accomplishments.
Fakhrul underscored the importance of media freedom and responsibility, stating that a robust and independent media is vital for sustaining democracy.
He called for strengthening media institutions and fostering healthy relationships between media owners and journalists. Fakhrul asserted that democracy would be reinforced if the media operates without external pressures and conditions, emphasizing that such strength must come from within media institutions themselves.
He also expressed concerns over the rising influence of social media, describing it as increasingly dangerous. Fakhrul noted that minor social media content could tarnish a person’s lifetime achievements instantly, citing examples from countries like the United Kingdom, Australia, and France, which have restricted children’s access to social media due to its adverse effects.
Fakhrul pointed out that expecting the government to resolve all issues swiftly is unrealistic, particularly as the country navigates a transitional phase. He called for patience and tolerance, warning against impatience that could hinder democratic progress. Fakhrul expressed optimism that under Prime Minister Tarique R
ahman’s leadership, Bangladesh would achieve a sustainable democratic system, provided all stakeholders show patience and cooperation.
The minister remarked that the BNP has often inherited a ‘ruined system’ upon assuming office, specifically mentioning challenges in the energy and banking sectors. He refuted claims that the BNP government caused the current gas crisis, attributing the issue to the previous administration’s reliance on imports rather than exploration. Fakhrul also criticized the former government’s quick rental power projects and the resultant complications in the power sector, stating that restoring the banking sector remains a significant challenge.